Exploring new energy roles for electric scooter batteries in smart cities

Source: Tech Xplore

As global cities aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, integrating sustainable transport with smart energy systems remains a critical challenge. A recent study published in Sustainable Cities and Society by researchers from National Taiwan University, led by Associate Professor I-Yun Lisa Hsieh, examines how Taiwan’s electric scooter infrastructure could contribute to this effort.

The study focuses on the battery-swapping stations that support Taiwan’s widespread use of electric scooters. These stations enable users to exchange depleted batteries for charged ones, streamlining scooter use and encouraging adoption. The researchers explored whether these stations could also act as decentralized energy storage units, contributing to the resilience of urban power systems.

By simulating the integration of battery-swapping stations into a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) system, the team assessed their potential to store excess electricity, such as solar energy generated during the day, and release it back to the grid during periods of high demand. While V2G strategies have been explored primarily for electric cars, this study is among the first to investigate their application to two-wheeled vehicles.

Results indicated that incorporating V2G into Taiwan’s battery-swapping network improved grid stability. Many stations could operate independently during peak hours, reducing pressure on the overall energy system. However, the researchers noted that V2G integration alone does not guarantee reduced carbon emissions. Without an emissions-focused management approach, the system could inadvertently increase emissions under certain conditions.

The study also highlighted a geographic variation: rural stations, which tend to have more idle batteries, demonstrated better performance in energy flow management and cost reduction compared to urban stations. This suggests that V2G applications may be beneficial in both densely populated and less urbanized areas.

The researchers conclude that, with appropriate emissions management strategies, electric scooter battery-swapping infrastructure could support not only transportation but also energy sustainability goals in smart cities.

Click here to read the research article in full.